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Delray Commission sets proposed millage ceiling at 6.4660 mills amid divided views on raising taxes
Summary
The commission set a proposed operating millage of 6.4371 mills plus 0.0289 mills for debt (total 6.4660 mills) for FY 2026–27 as the maximum to appear on residents' TRIM notices. Commissioners debated the cap rules, reserve drawdown and whether to prioritize budget cuts rather than raise rates; the measure passed by roll call.
The Delray Beach City Commission voted to set the proposed millage rate for fiscal year 2026–27 at 6.4371 mills for operating and 0.0289 mills for debt service (a combined tentative ceiling of 6.4660 mills) to appear on the property‑tax TRIM notice. The proposal was forwarded by motion and passed on roll call.
City staff and the chief financial officer presented the technical basis for the proposal, citing projected revenue needs, the role of fund balance and the city's capital and service priorities. Staff explained state rules governing property‑tax caps: the rollback/“safe‑harbor” framework and a 110% threshold that requires a supermajority (four of five) to exceed; going above 110% requires unanimous approval. Commissioners pressed on the choice between raising the millage and making further cuts to departmental spending, requested a prioritized list of potential savings, and said residents should be given clear information about what any increase would fund.
During debate several commissioners said they preferred to keep this number as a ceiling the commission could lower during the budget adoption process, while one commissioner publicly opposed any increase above the current rate. The motion to set the proposed millage as presented carried on roll call with four commissioners voting yes and one opposing.
Staff noted the TRIM notice procedure allows the commission to lower the adopted rate later during budget hearings; public hearings on millage and the budget were announced for September 8 and September 22. The commission also separately approved setting the Downtown Development Authority tentative millage at its 1.0‑mill maximum.
Next steps: staff will incorporate the proposed millage into the TRIM notice and continue budget development and public hearings through September.
